Appearing Characters: Alanai, Arthak Saurfang, Azgadaan, Gel'nok, Halno, Mindi, Nyxxa, Sadine Summerflow, Sagaz, Samaara, Silansalia Winterwind, Solion, Thura Saurfang
November 26th
The scene opens with Nyxxa and Samaara walking back.
Samaara says: Is everything alright?
Nyxxa rubs the back of her neck.
Nyxxa says: Magic?
Samaara raises an eyebrow and subconsciously reaches to draw her bow.
Nyxxa says: No. It’s fine. I would have handled that better if I had known that would happen.
Samaara says: What… are you talking about?
Nyxxa looks around briefly.
Nyxxa says: So I made some contacts with the Resistance.
Samaara says: Right now?
Nyxxa says: On the mainland, but they got back in touch.
Samaara says: I see.
She puts her bow away again. It appears she has no idea anything had just happened to Nyxxa.
Nyxxa says: So. This is probably going to seem crazy, because it is, but… they asked me to steal some boats to try and get their noncombatants out when the barrier falls.
Samaara says: I see. That is quite a tall order.
Nyxxa says: That’s what I said.
Samaara says: Not impossible, however.
Nyxxa says: But that’s why I wanted to talk to you. Because--
'Samaara says: You want my help stealing the boats.
Nyxxa says: Yes, but this is also a good opportunity to get your people out.
Samaara says: The time is coming, I fear. I am not certain they will be safe here.
Nyxxa says: It’s probably only going to get worse, but if we are able to find boats, someone needs to get them to the appropriate location, and I know I can’t do this alone. And I mean, we only just met, but…
Samaara says: Yet I have reason to believe this is not some sort of ploy to draw me into a trap. If you sought that, you would have done it by now.
Nyxxa says: Oh. Another thing. You’ve heard of the Blood Shrike. As it turns out, I spoke with her, and Remnii is with some friends of hers. And in good hands. I asked her.
Samaara’s brow raises then furrows again.
Samaara says: I… see. That is good. I spoke with her briefly months ago, but have not been able to do so since.
Nyxxa says: I think it’s the…
Nyxxa points up.
Nyxxa says: Apparently only elves can send transmissions in or out. I imagine she knows that too if her new friends are in contact. But she should be able to message you when the barrier drops. And, hopefully, at that point you’ll be on your way to meet her, if this… works.
Samaara says: That would be the idea. I cannot… there is only so much I can do here. Eventually the powers that be will discover what the Ati-Kaso is. And I will not allow them to be used. Not against Remnii, nor my people.
Nyxxa nods.
Nyxxa says: The powers that be are distracted for the moment, but they won’t be forever.
Samaara says: They won’t.
Nyxxa says: And I did have a thought. Not a great thought, but… there is a sickness going around.
Samaara says: There is, yes, though curiously none of my people have been affected by it. Not as of yet. Then again, my people are much more adept when it comes to adapting from world to world. I know how to avoid things that could cause harm, I know how to test for it, the orcs do not. They have not been on another world. I am not surprised to find their bodies are struggling to adapt. It is different from Draenor.
Nyxxa says: But do the orcs know this about the draenei?
Samaara says: The orcs pay little attention to us.
Nyxxa says: Depending on your deception, it could be a good opportunity for people to start disappearing.
Samaara says: It is a possibility.
Nyxxa says: In any case, would you be willing to try?
Samaara says: Yes. It serves our purposes as well as your own. And… if what Arthak said was true, if Gul’dan plans to use the Red Mist, I truly believe in what I said. No being deserves to be exposed to such a virulent poison. I will not allow Gul’dan to have another victory of such a kind, and if this can help prevent that, it is another boon.
Nyxxa says: I suppose then all that remains is to plant that information as soon as possible.
Samaara says: I have some degree of experience in spreading misinformation and in the… let us say, liberation of assets. I will do what I can to lay the ground work.
Nyxxa says: I can always use a few pointers.
Samaara says: While it is my first time stealing a boat, surviving in Draenor required necessities.
Nyxxa says: Are there any others among the Ati-Kaso that could help?
Samaara thinks for a moment.
Samaara says: There are… some that have certain skills in scavenging. Deremos has some degree of talent. Many of us are adept to sticking to the shadows, but he among most is suited. Artallus, if he can silence himself, could also be of benefit if necessary, but unfortunately many scouts left with the others or have not made it. There are a number from within the Broken Blade, but I would not rely on orcs for this.
Nyxxa says: No. I would keep this, if possible, as far away from the Broken Blade as possible.
Samaara says: I will do everything I can to keep them ignorant.
Nyxxa says: Thought I would tell you, I did tell Arthak of my intent to work with the Resistance. He did not oppose it… I simply needed to remove myself from the Clipped Wing.
Samaara says: I will consider that, but ultimately that changes little.
Nyxxa says: The less he knows of this the better, especially when there are people who can delve into their minds. Anyway, we’ve talked enough for one evening.
Samaara says: Agreed. There will be… things set in motion. When the barrier drops, the Horde will be… excitable. Distracted. Like a starved hound let off the chain. That will be when we act.
Nyxxa says: We just need to get in before the Red Mist gets deployed.
Samaara says: Yes, and whatever countermeasures we can provide. I have base knowledge of how it spread. I spoke to people who were affected. I assume it will be different, but any knowledge is good knowledge.
Nyxxa nods.
Samaara says: For now, I will count on you as our intermediary, but it would do good for me to speak with this Blood Shrike creature.
Nyxxa says: Would you like to accompany me to the mainland in the future?
Samaara nods.
Nyxxa says: In addition to this, Arthak made an enemy that I need to track down. And I would benefit from some help with that, at least on the books.
Samaara says: Of course, though a reminder, Nyxxa. You have enemies of your own. Be careful how many of Arthak’s you choose to engage. You’re only one woman. Just something to keep in mind.
Nyxxa sighs.
Nyxxa says: I can’t argue with that, but right now, my enemies are Arthak’s enemies.
Samaara says: Lets hope that trend continues, for your sanity, and your safety.
Nyxxa says: I thank you for your concern.
Nyxxa smiles.
Samaara says: It is only fair. Remnii put a deal of trust in you. I am simply paying that forward.
Nyxxa says: Well, I’ll see you off then.
Samaara says: You need not see me back to the Ati-Kaso, but I appreciate.
Nyxxa says: I know you can handle yourself, but one more thing. How are you feeling in light of everything?
Samaara says: I’m fine, Nyxxa. Worry yourself not for my own well-being. I’ve survived much more danger than this.
Nyxxa says: Just in regards to your sister, I wanted to express my condolences.
Samaara says: ...Mistakes were made. And… that is all I can say about it right now.
Nyxxa says: If you need to talk, don’t hesitate.
Samaara says: Appreciated, Nyxxa. You are… far more empathetic than any other demon I’ve met. Save perhaps Spinyl.
Nyxxa says: Well. It’s one of the few things I got left.
Nyxxa shrugs.
Samaara says: May the Light preserve that, less you lose the last shred of who you are.
Nyxxa says: Yeah.
Nyxxa bows and bids Samaara goodnight. Samaara nods, then turns and disappears into the darkness. Nyxxa does the same.
Later that night, Azgadaan goes to the place he normally met Samaara. It’s a bit south of Gramgun’kur in a small clearing that had not yet been used for anything significant. Samaara is sitting cross-legged, her eyes closed, and her face turned toward the lapping waves of the sea.
Samaara opens an eye as he approaches.
Azgadaan says: How are you?
Samaara says: I’m fine, Azgadaan. ‘Tis a bit late for lessons. I assume you called me here for some other reason?
Azgadaan says: Yes.
Samaara says: What can I help you with?
Azgadaan says: As you may have heard, I met someone the other day.
Samaara says: Is that true? I… have heard whispers, but little more.
Azgadaan says: That’s how I got these.
He points at the recovering injuries on his chest.
Samaara says: Are you alright?
Azgadaan says: No, actually. That’s why I wanted to talk to you.
Samaara gestures back to the beach for Azgadaan to sit with her. He does so.
Azgadaan says: So. It seems I’ve garnered some attention.
Samaara says: I am not surprised.
Azgadaan says: Other beings in the Legion. When I was on the ship… the Summerfall, I met with--
He uses minor illusion in the air to show Rakeesh’s name, but altered, so as not to incite it.
Azgadaan says: I met with a Force Commander.
Samaara says: Azgadaan. I’m not sure if I can understand who you are speaking of.
Azgadaan says: He is rather high ranking. Directly under the Left Hand of the Legion.
Samaara says: You refer to the Deceiver?
Azgadaan nods.
Azgadaan says: They have information that they are withholding. May I see your hand quickly? As a precaution?
Samaara squints then offers her hand. Azgadaan casts remove curse on her and then casts protection from evil and good on her.
Samaara says: I understand your paranoia, Azgadaan, but whoever went for you cannot reach you here. If they were here, I would know.
Azgadaan says: How do you?
Samaara says: It is no supernatural ability, Azgadaan. I suppose if you are being scryed on, I could not tell, but if there is someone spying on you here, unless they are using means beyond the immediate depth, you have nothing to fear.
Azgadaan quickly scrawls a note and passes it to Samaara.
It’s his true name.
Azgadaan says: This… is what I’m going to trust you with. And this is no longer safe.
He then pulls out the wrapped ata’mal crystal and hands it to her as well.
Samaara says: Are you certain about this, Azgadaan? I believe that this crystal found its way to you for a reason. If you believe it is right, I will take it.
Azgadaan says: What’s right anymore?
Samaara says: Right is what you make, Azgadaan. And if you allow this… eredar to strike fear into. If you allow him to stray you from your path, your path you have written for yourself, then they have already won. But you control your own fate. The greatest lie that the Burning Legion can ever tell you, is that the fate of this world is sealed. That the fate of every person, every mortal, every demon, is destined to join them or be destroyed. That is the greatest and simplest lie they have ever told, and it is core to their existence. Only you can prove that lie. But if you allow it to control you, your fate is sealed. What is right? It’s hard to say. You can only trust what your heart tells you, and what your mind tells you. Is this what your heart is telling you?
Azgadaan says: No.
Samaara says: What is it saying?
Azgadaan says: It’s saying that I want to keep you, and all this realm… why is the sea splashing so much right now?
He rubs his face, struggling to mask any attempts at hiding his tears. Samaara reaches out and places a hand on Azgadaan’s shoulder.
Samaara says: Azgadaan… no one can know the struggle you are going through. Not truly. But I have respect and admiration for you for taking up this fight nonetheless. It is a solitary journey. While you must walk it alone, even if it does not feel like it, the Light is with you.
Azgadaan says: Thank you…
Samaara tentative slides her arm around Azgadaan’s back and wraps him in a hug, letting his head lean on her shoulder.
Azgadaan thanks her again as Samaara strokes his hair, and quietly, under her breath, she starts to hum. He mumbles something about knowing how to get them out. A spell to let them breathe in the water, if they can give him some time.
Samaara smiles and chuckles at the tired babbling.
Samaara says: We’ll speak another time, but thank you, Azgadaan. I think you should get some rest.
Azgadaan says: … alright.
She helps Azgadaan up, and walks him back to Gramgun’kur. He had decided to keep the crystal for now.
Arthak also returns to his home and momentarily greets his mate before they fall into slumber together. Sadras is a bit disgruntled about how late he was, but she doesn’t say much about it.
November 27th
Arthak and Nyxxa immediately get to work in the smithy under Gel’nok on the greatsword that Arthak is trying to forge.
Azgadaan continues crafting his spell scrolls and draenic languages.
Halno also works on his scrolls in addition to the ritual for Sagaz to become a warlock. He also starts to try and purposely trigger the latent memories of Sylvos.
Sagaz arrives in Halno’s lab at the appointed time for the ritual. There’s a determined look on his face.
Sagaz says: I’m ready, sir.
Halno says: Are you?
Sagaz opens his mouth to answer, and the words die, but he nods.
Sagaz says: I’m as ready as I will be, sir.
Halno says: Understand, from this moment forth, you will speak nothing of what I teach you to anyone unless I give permission.
Sagaz says: Of course. You don’t need to do anything, but you are. I’m the one that seeks this power, and it would be foolish to betray who offered it to me.
Halno says: Yes. It truly would be.
Sagaz swallows hard and nods. Halno walks over to a table and removes an intricate stone tablet with a magical rune in it. He also places a knife on the table, and Halno beckons him over.
Halno says: You’re going to need to cut yourself and bleed into the symbol.
Sagaz nods, takes a deep breath, and cuts into his hand. He holds his hand over the rune, squeezing to urge the blood forth. As he does so, Halno uses some magic to force a part of his scepter’s power forth. For a moment, nothing happens, but then the scepter begins to glow, and the blood starts to react and pulse in a sort of rhythmic heartbeat.
Halno feels a minor sting on his hand, and as he looks down, there is a deadened, black ichor seeping onto his scepter. The glyph of blood begins to rise amidst the shadowy magic, and then with no indication, the rune launches forward and Sagaz flinches as the bloody rune rushes at him. It collides into his arm, wrapping around his arm.
The young orc winces, and the bloody rune begins to force itself back through the gash in his hand. There is a kickback, and the magic ceases, leaving Sagaz gripping his wrist. He opens his hand, and there’s no wound remaining, but instead, there is a deep, blackish red rune, as if his palm had been stained with blood.
Halno waits for a moment to see if there are any unforeseen consequences, but there is nothing. Sagaz flexes his hand, and he starts to cast false life. The rune pulses, and the young orc’s veins seem to pulse through his body as they are bolstered by the shadowy magic.
He had never managed to produce a spell of that caliber before.
Sagaz says: It worked. I never doubted you for a moment, Master, but it actually worked.
Halno says: I’m also kind of surprised you didn’t blow up.
Sagaz says: Was… was that a concern?
Halno says: You understand, you wanted the powers of death blasted into you body.
Sagaz says: Yes, I guess we should count ourselves lucky this didn’t go poorly.
Halno says: Yes, I didn’t want to explain that to Arthak. Anyway, you’re already casting magic.
He smacks Sagaz over the head.
Halno says: While that’s impressive, I don’t believe I’ve taught you the dangers of casting forbidden magic. While you may be fine now, there is another danger to casting. One you’ll run in repeatedly. Magic… even more so, death magic... is dangerous. Don’t play with it.
Sagaz says: Ah, yes, Master. I’ll endeavor to be careful.
Halno says: Good.
He then smashes the obsidian slab, and launches into an explanation on the risks of casting magic and how to protect against it.
November 28th
The second day of working is when Gel’nok presents Arthak with the catalyst he wishes him to incorporate into his new blade. It’s a bit of piece of the stony protrusions that erupt from the mok’nathal’s back.
Arthak Saurfang says: Mmmm. I can use this. Thank you.
Gel'nok says: I expect you to. And if you don’t impress me, well, I suppose we’ll just have to wait and see.
Arthak Saurfang says: I guess we will. I already have an idea though.
Gel’nok laughs.
Gel'nok says: I’m sure you do.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well Nyxxa, ready to begin?
Nyxxa nods.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good. This will be good.
They immediately dive into forging the weapon.
Sometime after they had finished working on the blade for the day, they go to meet with Arthak’s elven prisoners. Arthak also brings Halno along. He requests Halno keep the mask on.
Arthak Saurfang says: This is merely an interview. Not an interrogation.
Arthak has the two elven prisoners brought together in a basement of another gutted building. Their hands are bound for the time being. Upon seeing each other, they exclaim each other’s names and run to meet each other.
It’s Sadine Summerflow and Silansalia Winterwind.
Halno heads down and sees the two elves, and hears their names. They are reassuring each other in Thalassian.
He feels an inescapable wash of emotion bubble up from his core. It’s even stronger than the previous sensations he had felt. Their names resonate in his mind. They were very close to him, almost like they were two children beyond his own daughters.
But then there is the mental catch up as Halno processes he had never seen them before, but those emotions remain keenly.
For a moment, Halno jolts forward, then stops and looks at Arthak. Arthak had a cautious hand ready to move toward a sword.
As Halno moves, the younger of the two, Silansalia’s, eyes flicker up to him. However, the older one grabs her head and tells her not to do anything. Halno knows, despite the fact they look so much alike, they are in fact an aunt and niece, and the aunt is actually a few years younger. However, they were effectively sisters, and were very close to Sylvos’s children.
As the magic dissipates from Silansalia’s eyes, it is quickly replaced by fear.
Silansalia Winterwind says: I’m sorry. I’m sorry.
She is speaking in Thalassian, and the apology is close enough to Darnassian that Nyxxa informs Arthak it was an apology.
Sadine Summerflow says: What language should we speak in?
She asks in common.
Nyxxa says: Common.
Sadine Summerflow says: We have not seen you before.
She is looking at Halno.
Halno says: No, I have not…
He coughs.
Halno says: No, I am… new to Arthak’s clan.
Silansalia Winterwind says: I’m sorry. He startled me. I thought he was…
Halno says: Yes, I’m afraid I forgot my manners for a moment.
Sadine Summerflow says: Why has the chieftain called us here?
Nyxxa is translating while Halno is speaking, and vice versa.
Arthak Saurfang says: I wish to know who you were. And know of the one I slew at the docks.
Silansalia grits her teeth, but Sadine introduces them both by name.
Sadine Summerflow says: We were both magisters. We were under the tutelage of the man you slew.
Arthak Saurfang says: Sylvos Windrunner. Would you tell me of him?
They both look away for a moment.
Sadine Summerflow says: Why do you want to know, out of curiosity? What would you have to gain, learning about a dead man?
Arthak Saurfang says: He fought bravely for his people. And for you. He died well. That is enough.
In Thalassian, Silansalia says “savage beast” and Sadine tells her to be quiet. Halno chooses not to translate.
Sadine Summerflow says: Sylvos was one of the ranking magisters. He’d been a magister for many years, and he was dear to the two of us. He taught us most of the magic we knew.
Silansalia Winterwind says: He was like a father to us.
Halno shuffles uncomfortably.
Arthak Saurfang says: I am sorry for his death, then.
Silansalia Winterwind says: Then why did he kill him?
Silansalia looks at Nyxxa to translate.
Silansalia Winterwind says: How can he say he’s sorry for the death of someone whose death he caused?
Nyxxa translates it to Arthak, also wanting to know the answer.
Arthak Saurfang says: Death is an inevitability of war. Our peoples are at war. But I can admire my enemy. And be sad for their loss if even I was its cause. I don’t expect you to understand or take any sort of comfort in that, but… that is what I am. But he was brave.
As Nyxxa translates, Silansalia begins to tear up angrily and balls her fists. Sadine places a hand on her shoulder.
Sadine Summerflow says: He’s right. I don’t think we can understand. But I suppose in a strange, inexcusable, in-explainable way… I take comfort in the knowledge that his death… was not at the hands of a raving lunatic or a bandit.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. We are keeping you. For now.
The elves squint at Arthak.
Sadine Summerflow says: For now? What do you mean, for now?
Arthak Saurfang says: The nature of war. Eventually prisoners exist on both sides. I can keep you alive. And come the day I need to rescue mine, I can offer them you.
The elves appear to have no reason to distrust what is being said. They nod.
Sadine Summerflow says: Fair enough. We have… we have obeyed the things you asked. I… know this is much to ask… but…
She looks to Nyxxa and Halno.
Sadine Summerflow says: May you ask him if the two of us can be kept together?
Halno translates, and there is a sense of pleading to Arthak in the orcish. Nyxxa also adds in Orcish.
Nyxxa says: And if they do try anything, it would be on them if they were to be separated.
Arthak Saurfang says: Very well. Though please understand a few things first. You are in a rare situation. Captives of the Horde end up usually in one of two ways. Dead or slaves. Because of your value, and because of Sylvos Windrunner, you are neither. That is the one thing. The other is… continue to not be a problem and I will be willing to discuss further compromises. Become a problem, try and escape… my admiration only goes so far.
The two elves nod in understanding.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good. One last question. You are both elven magisters, yes?
Sadine Summerflow says: That is correct.
Arthak Saurfang says: So you understand the nature of the ban’dinoriel.
Silansalia doesn’t appear to make any indication of anything, but Sadine’s ear twitches slightly, and she pales subtly.
Sadine Summerflow says: That’s… correct.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. Are your magics helping to hold up the ban’dinoriel?
Sadine looks to Nyxxa.
Sadine Summerflow says: If that was true, would he slay us?
Nyxxa asks Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: Regrettable. But you are under my protection. That includes from myself.
Sadine then nods. Silansalia gives her a sideways look, but Sadine keeps eye contact with Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. That does change a few things. I’ll need to up security and more carefully vet who is guarding you.
Nyxxa says: I can take a guard shift.
Arthak Saurfang says: You have enough on your plate. I’ll find warriors I can trust. And no one outside this room knows this. Secrecy and my clan will ensure the rest.
Halno and Nyxxa nod.
Halno says: I’d suggest undead, but… they are not the most observant.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’d rather this be inconspicuous. Your servants are useful but stand out.
Halno says: What? The skeletons?
Arthak Saurfang says: Startling but true. Very well. I know all I need to know.
Sadine looks at Nyxxa.
Sadine Summerflow says: Tell the chieftain he has my thanks for allowing us to stay together.
Nyxxa says: Of course. Though there is something I would ask, unrelated to all of this. Do you know anything about a woman named Sinestra?
Sadine’s brow furrows.
Sadine Summerflow says: Why do you ask?
Nyxxa looks quickly to Arthak, asking how much she should elaborate. Arthak shakes his head.
Arthak Saurfang says: For now, until we have an idea of what they will return to, ignorance can be a shield for them. If you feel the need, emphasize she is dangerous.
Nyxxa says: To everyone.
Arthak grunts, and Nyxxa looks back to the elves.
Nyxxa says: I can’t go into detail, but I believe she is a threat to your people, and to the orcs.
Silansalia Winterwind says: That is a bold claim. I’d be curious to know why, but I doubt you’d tell us. Sinestra was the leader of the alchemist’s guild, though I’m sure you knew that. I was a member, but I didn’t know her very well.
Nyxxa says: Minimum information: she appears to be using this as an opportunity to experiment on your people. That’s all I can say.
Sadine and Silan share a glance, though they appear to not know what that might be.
Sadine Summerflow says: I suppose if we run into her, we’ll be cautious.
There’s a bit of cheekiness as she raises her bound hands.
Nyxxa says: That would be for the best. Or just run. If you see small dragonlike men, be wary of their intentions. Tell the guards.
Sadine Summerflow says: Your warnings are exceptionally cryptic, but, fine, we shall remember your words. There’s not much else for us to do.
Nyxxa nods.
Halno says: They seem to have retained a sense of humor.
Nyxxa says: Sometimes that’s all you can do.
Halno leans in.
Halno says: I know.
After the prisoners are taken away, Nyxxa asks Halno what his response was about.
Halno says: That…
He shakes his head.
Halno says: That, Nyxxa, is a goddamn recurring thing. And it’s something we can discuss elsewhere. That’s not a conversation for here.
Arthak Saurfang says: Halno. By the way, I have another job for you. If you can get me more information on Sylvos Windrunner and our captives.
Halno says: Well, you might want to come to my residence as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: I was planning on it, but for the future.
Halno says: For now, I believe I have information for you. Fresh. New. Information.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good.
Halno says: Not good, since my original impulse was to protect them against you.
Arthak Saurfang says: A mixed blessing.
Halno says: I would like to speak with them again, though I recommend not allowing me to do so alone.
Arthak Saurfang says: You may. All I ask is the same thing I ask Nyxxa. Let me know ahead of time. If you want, you can go together.
Halno says: Works for me, as I don’t know what I’ll do.
Arthak Saurfang says: Noted.
They head to Halno’s lab to talk further.
Halno says: If you wouldn’t mind keeping this a secret.
He looks at Nyxxa, and then removes his mask.
Halno says: It seems Sylvos has not quite left the…
He gestures to himself.
Halno says: Every once in a while, he… not intentionally, he’s not a functional soul at the moment, but there are impulses. Memories. Emotions. Sometimes they flare up. That was…
He shudders.
Halno says: The most intense it has ever been. Honestly, if he was not fragmented into accountable pieces, I wouldn’t be surprised if he took control of his body right there.
Nyxxa rapidly blinks beneath her blindfold.
Halno says: The two we met with… were very close to being daughters to him. They were aunt and niece of each other, not actually sisters.
Arthak Saurfang says: Elves. Hmph.
Halno says: That said, considering this most recent flare up, I will be going out of my way to create further situations. I’m going to try and trigger any stimuli I can so I can hopefully get it out of the way and piece some of this together.
Nyxxa says: So that’s… his body then.
Halno says: Yes.
Arthak is just watching the two of them as Nyxxa takes a deep breath, many things running through her mind.
Nyxxa says: Ah. Well. Thank you for sharing. Likely not the best to tell them.
Halno says: Really?
His voice is dripping with sarcasm.
Arthak Saurfang says: Or anyone.
Halno says: Yes. You are the only three… four, that know.
Arthak Saurfang says: Best to keep that number low.
Halno says: I don’t intend it to grow. Nyxxa just always ends up being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was becoming… you don’t really keep secrets from satyrs. They’ll worm their way in eventually. No offense.
Nyxxa says: No. No, you’re right.
Halno says: By the way, Arthak. Sagaz can cast magic now.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good. Is that all?
Halno says: I forbid him from telling anyone, but there was a ritual involved that should not be repeated or discussed.
Arthak Saurfang says: Apologies, Halno. What was this ritual?
Halno says: It was a ritual to… how to explain this. Ah, the easiest way to phrase this, and it will sound horrible, but please don’t cut off my head. It’s a pain to get a new body. I blasted open a connection to the plane of death. I think. A very, very small connection.
Arthak Saurfang says: Follow up question. Is that normally how… this happens?
Halno says: He’s something new.
Arthak groans.
Halno says: He is healthy, fine, and I believe he will remain fine. He is doing quite well.
Arthak Saurfang says: See to it he stays that way.
Halno says: And he’s capable of magics I have not goddamn taught him.
Arthak Saurfang says: Interesting. But I entrusted him to your care.
Halno says: I thought you should know. However, any further lessons will not be permitted to be shared until he is capable. If you wish, I can keep you appraised, but it is not something to be attempted again.
Arthak Saurfang says: That’s fine. Keep me appraised, but I am a novice with magic. Even if I was informed, there’s not much I can do with the information. At least not effectively.
Halno says: Correct. Who knows, Sagaz may be impossible to kill eventually. Wouldn’t that be something?
He rubs his hands together.
Arthak Saurfang says: That it would. If there’s nothing else, I’ll be returning to the forge or… perhaps see my mate.
Nyxxa says: You should probably see your mate.
Halno nods.
Nyxxa says: I happen to know a thing or two about women.
Halno says: God, I would really have to raise you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. That would be regrettable. And I don’t have many more fingers to lose.
Halno says: Huh. You know, those could probably be grown back?
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m aware. Anyway. If there’s nothing else, farewell.
Halno makes a shooing gesture with his hands.
December 1st
Azgadaan heads to Sylvos’s manor, which he had been renting out to the felblood elves. He knocks on the front door, and one of the felblood elves answers. He is a young man with crimson red skin and black lines that run through his hair. His hair is black and fades into a crimson-white at the tips.
He smiles.
felblood Elf says: My Lord Azgadaan. It’s good to see you again.
Azgadaan says: You as well, Solion.
Solion says: You remember my name, my lord. You honor me. Truly.
Azgadaan says: Think nothing of it. How is you day?
Solion says: Quite good! Please, come in.
It seems the felblood elves have done good with the manor. Some things have been repaired, and others come to greet them as Solion calls for them.
Azgadaan says: You’re one of the tenants?
Solion says: Yes. I’m something of the leader of this band of misfits, as I’m one of the more powerful ones here.
Azgadaan says: You’re using this as a home for now?
Solion says: A base of operations. A home. A place to observe the ban'dinoriel.
Azgadaan says: Glad the telescope is working.
Solion says: Yes. We called in a few favors.
Azgadaan says: Glad you’re doing well. I just came to collect last month’s due.
Solion says: Ah. Yes. My lord, I had some concerns about the fee.
He gestures, and a piece of parchment floats over.
Solion says: You see, there has been a number of issues that arose and we dealt with.
He presents the list. First and foremost, there is the telescope. Roofing, siding, doors that have been replaced. Various creatures that had infested the area and been eliminated.
Solion says: I believe we were paying about 100 gold pieces a month. Does that sound correct?
Azgadaan says: That sounds about right.
Solion says: Yes, so as you can see, all the things we had to fix is about 473 gold pieces in total, not to mention, my lord, with all the things you have to take care of us, micro-managing the lawn and the simple repairs is a bit beneath you. Wouldn’t you agree?
Azgadaan says: Indeed.
Solion says: So I suppose my question to you is, if you’re looking to allow us to live in this space. What actually makes it yours?
Azgadaan says: What makes this building mine?
Solion says: Yes.
Azgadaan says: By right of conquest.
Solion says: Yes, that is how the orcs and Legion operate.
Azgadaan says: Yes. You can ask Lady Shaspira, if you wish to involve her.
Solion says: Ah, yes, but that is far beneath her.
Azgadaan says: Yes. And I am willing to drop your rent.
Solion says: Excellent!
Azgadaan says: Seeing you spent 400 gold, I am willing to drop your rent by 20 gold.
Solion says: My lord, that is generous. But, I have a counter offer for you. Why don’t we just forget this whole contract, and you can deal with more important things than squeezing some small amount of currency from this manor.
Azgadaan says: Are you suggesting taking it off my hands?
Solion says: I’m suggesting precisely that. The fall of Silvermoon was about three months or so… which that amount of rent… is squarely the 473 gold we already paid.
Azgadaan says: Currently, this is one of the best kept buildings.
Solion says: Yes, you’re welcome for that.
Azgadaan says: Even before. If you looked next door and across, they still haven’t recovered. That, and you’re on the island, for convenience. The land itself, plus, war time… hmm… you have a fairly large building. I would say, for ownership, I’d say minus the headache it would cause me, I’m willing to sell it to you and your comrades for 1000. Is that fair?
Solion glances at the others, and they talk for a moment in Thalassian.
Solion says: You know, my lord, as you have been a generous and accommodating host, we accept your agreement.
He shouts to the others, and they start to get up and get coins in order. Before long, they have produced 1000 gold pieces.
Solion says: I believe this settles us up, then, my lord. If you ever get bored, please come by and see what we do with the place.
Azgadaan says: I do hope you take care of it.
Solion says: Of course.
Azgadaan quickly whips up a contract, counts the gold, and goes on his way. He waits next to the Dark Portal for the tothrezim representative that he had also contacted.
Azgadaan pays off the rest of his debt, and the tothrezim asks him if he wants to make an additional deposit to avoid the fees. Azgadaan instead asks to close the account, and he pays over the closing fee.
Azgadaan asks for the tothrezim’s name so he can go through her if he decides to reopen it, and she introduces herself as Alanai.
Alanai asks Azgadaan if he delivered the gift.
Azgadaan says: Bit personal, yes?
Alanai says: Ah, yes. Vilateth is a dear friend of mine. I simply wanted to pass on what the Lady Aracyra thought of her craftsmanship.
Azgadaan says: Ah, if it’s for Vilateth, Aracyra was exuberant.
Alanai says: Excellent! Excellent! I’ll be sure to pass that along. I look forward to doing business with you in the future. May the Legion never fall!
Azgadaan says: And may your pockets ever fill.
Alanai then departs, and Azgadaan heads back to Gramgun’kur. He buys a coil of hempen rope, and he goes to meet Samaara at the beach.
He is already in the ocean when she arrives.
Samaara says: What… are you doing in the sea? Is this… this is about what you said. Oh dear.
Azgadaan says: This is a test, and perhaps we can gather some useful things from the sea.
Samaara says: You want to go scavenging… at the bottom of the bay.
She is resting her head in her hand.
Azgadaan says: The more you say it, the more fun it sounds.
She opens her mouth, and closes it again.
Samaara says: Azgadaan. Do you know how to swim?
Azgadaan says: No. But I am very heavy.
Samaara says: Azgadaan… are you just going to walk into the ocean, then walk back out?
Azgadaan says: That was the plan.
Samaara says: That is certainly a plan, Azgadaan. Um… were you planning on going into the strait alone? There are many miles to cover between here and the mainland.
Azgadaan says: That’s why I wanted company, and as I was told by the small orc child, I’m blind.
Samaara says: So you want me to go with you… to the bottom of the strait… to scavenge… Azgadaan. Just because it is out of sight, doesn’t mean there aren’t dangers.
Azgadaan says: I know. If we see something, or if you see something, we can turn back. And it’s something to do.
Samaara says: I can respect that, Azgadaan, and I cannot stop you from wading into the ocean, but we should not do this without being… prepared. Have you ever tried fighting under the water?
Azgadaan says: No… hmm…
Samaara says: You have not seen them. They are called murlocks. Small, finned humanoids. Somewhat savage and aquatic. They live in the water, and are very adept at fighting under it. They are one of many things to be found beneath the sea. I can only see so far under the water. Even if I can breathe, Azgadaan, and if we are to find something, hypothetically, I can escape. I am a competent swimmer. But what exactly would I do with you?
Azgadaan says: I assume this would help.
He casts alter self on himself to acquire gills and a swim speed.
Samaara says: That… would help… yes…. But you still need to actually… while there is merit to this idea, it may not be wise for you to go alone. Or even with a group of one or two.
Azgadaan says: You said fighting underwater is bad?
Samaara says: Well. Not… bad. Different, yes. You would be more… adapted… I assume? True Magics are complicated.
Azgadaan says: Well, can you go with me just in here to… would you teach me? Just a quick lesson.
Samaara says: It is not difficult. I imagine one of your strength could accomplish it. But yes, sure, I suppose I can teach you the basics of swimming. If your magics fail you, it would be good for you to not… drown… among other things. Again, if you wish to scout… you are not equipped to scout. An expedition without stealth may be better, but a first go is… not what that is.
Azgadaan says: Agreed. I suppose I can bring it to the group.
Samaara says: Yes. That would be wise. I can go with you at that point. I have some experience with underwater ventures…
Azgadaan says: I don’t know if this works yet, but…
He casts water breathing on himself and Samaara to try it, and the spell succeeds.
He also informs Samaara that he is out of debt, and he admits he was attempting to look in the depths for the others.
Azgadaan says: Oh. Did you read my note?
Samaara says: I did. I have nothing for you right now, but I’ll be in contact if I do.
Azgadaan asks her if she burned the note.
Samaara says: Yes. This is standard for the rangari. I have covered my tracks for 10,000 years. But. Yes. This is… certainly an idea to be explored. In the future. You are right, the ships that were destroyed in this bay may have some degree of riches or things to be used, though it’s reasonable to assume they may already have been claimed.
They discuss more plans for preparing for an underwater expedition in the event it does, in fact, happen. Azgadaan also offers the weapons that he has collected to disperse through the Ati-Kaso, which she does accept.
Azgadaan thanks her for tolerating him.
Samaara says: It’s… fine, Azgadaan. It’s… endearing to spend this time with you. It is simply a shame we cannot do things like this more frequently or we would draw too much attention.
Azgadaan says: Indeed. Thank you for teaching me.
Samaara says: Someone has to cover where your… father has failed, somewhat offensively in some places.
Azgadaan says: Ah. Yes. I saw him rarely.
Samaara says: I suppose he would be busy… I should be going. Too much time will draw attention.
Azgadaan tries to give her some money as well, but she stops him, expressing he would need it, and Samaara gathers the sack of weapons up and leaves.
Azgadaan continues to spend some time in the water, shifting sand with mold earth. However, after some time, some of the young orc children come by with Mindi in tow to hang out with him.
Days Before December 1st
Halno was wandering through Gramgun’kur and the surrounding areas attempting to trigger memories of Sylvos.
He learns that Sylvos Windrunner was approximately 477 years old, and he had a wife named Lanore, formerly Lanore Erona, and she was the one in charge of the docks. As well as two daughters.
Sylvos was also an archmage and was able to become so through his specialization of abjuration magic.
The best sensations he was able to get from walking around just trying to “experience” Sylvos’s life, was he got a smell of tea from Arthak’s tent that was made from some local plants. It smells very familiar, but it’s not enough to draw the memory out.
It is made from a violet flower that is indiginous specifically to Quel’danas, and the tea made from it is soothing, and has a magical quality to it with a vague spice. In the Thalassian tongue, the tea is called Dragonhawk’s Breath.
However, looking further, he sees in the distance a manor with a telescope. The sight of the manor seems to ring a bell of some kind.
December 1st
Meanwhile, as the days pass, Arthak and Nyxxa make further progress on their projects. Arthak’s blade is nearly completed. It finally comes to fruition.
As the blade cools, it takes on an appearance of cooled lava, and as he hits it, it doesn’t seem to want to shift any longer. As he watches it, the blade almost seems to move subtly, like a magma pool cooling extremely slowly.
Gel’nok comes back to take a look.
Gel'nok says: Well. Are you done yet?
Arthak Saurfang says: Hmmm. Yes. It’s complete.
Arthak pulls the sword out of the cooling agent. Gel’nok holds his hand out and takes the sword to examine it.
Gel'nok says: Mm. Alright. Blade seems sturdy.
He then slams it on a table.
Gel'nok says: Hm. Not bad. This is pretty damn good work, Arthak. More than acceptable. I think you can do better, but this is definitely a start. It’s no Doomhammer though.
Arthak Saurfang says: Not yet.
Gel'nok says: Good answer.
He tosses the sword back to Arthak, and he catches it, but it’s very heavy.
Gel'nok says: Have you named it?
Arthak Saurfang says: I had… ideas when I was making it. But seeing it in its completion. Champion’s Forge.
Gel'nok says: Not bad. You got a knack for naming. Much better than that Gul’dan fellow, though that’s a low bar, from what I understand. Alright. You know what happens next. Go on. Show me what you got.
Arthak takes the hammer up and raises it up. As he does, the tattoo on his right arm, the inscription for creation, glows, and the head of the hammer glows the same molten-hot color. The rune stays on the hammer.
Gel'nok says: Fair enough. You don’t need to wield the runic item, necessarily. It seems that rune has chosen its home for the time being.
He then turns to Nyxxa.
Gel'nok says: You. Fine work the two of you did, but I noticed you were working on something else as well.
Nyxxa says: Well, I did say I owed Arthak a… wedding gift. But yes. I meant to give you a gift concerning that, and I couldn’t help but notice you took an interest in a beverage I am quite familiar with.
Nyxxa manifests the gift and presents it to Arthak. It’s a kettle.
Image Link
Nyxxa says: I thought this was better for your orcish sensibilities. And fit your hands better.
It has the symbol of the Broken Blade on the side of it.
Nyxxa says: Just make sure it’s dry after you use it, or you’ll get rusty tea.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course. Thank you, Nyxxa. Perhaps after we’re done here, we could share a cup.
Nyxxa says: I’d like that. Partners.
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed. Partners.
Arthak turns back to Gel’nok.
Arthak Saurfang says: What happens next?
Gel'nok says: You’ll have to learn to use those. There are more runes that come later. You impressed me so far, Arthak, but the runes have chosen you. Now you need to prove the runes didn’t make a damn mistake. The power of the Breakers is at your beck and call, but you need to control it. Wield it. Like you would that blade. Perhaps once it’s a part of you, then we’ll talk more.
Arthak comments that the forge suits him, and Gel’nok comments it would do for now, but he has ideas of how to turn the place into a real forge. He said he’d send the ideas to the “little red haired man.”
Arthak Saurfang says: Gramgun.
Gel'nok says: That’s him. Pah. Did you name this port after him? And here I thought you were mated to that Frostwolf lass.
Arthak Saurfang says: Hm. The next town.
Gel'nok says: Alright. I won’t keep you then. Let me know what you think when you start practicing. They affect everyone a little differently.
Arthak Saurfang says: I will. And thank you.
Gel'nok says: No, thank you, for giving me the opportunity to see if this is worth my time.
Arthak has tea with Nyxxa, and then goes home to show his mate his new sword. Which means spar with her, of course.
The sword is heavy, but feels right. As he wields it, he can almost feel a warmth coming from the tattoos on his arms.
December 2nd
The next morning, Thura reports some news. Activity with the Clipped Wing had started on the mainland, and some of the soldiers were caught in an encounter.
Thura Saurfang says: There were casualties. On both sides, but more on ours. What’s worse, it seems like those creatures are fighting alongside the elves. They are… fearsome foes in the sewers, as one might expect. And they showed a surprising amount of coordination with the elves giving them orders. It wasn’t a total rout, but we did lose some men. About eight. We were able to retreat. Some won’t be able to fight for a bit, but there were others that were lost from other clans. It was a skirmish, but one that was telling.
Arthak Saurfang says: The Resistance is stronger now.
Thura Saurfang says: They are.
Arthak Saurfang says: Dammit. Thank you, Thura.
Thura Saurfang says: Zug zug.
Arthak Saurfang says: In a few days I intend to return to the mainland. We’ll see about returning the favor.
It seems the sickness in the clan is starting to subside. However, it is also starting to get colder.
